On January 14, 2023, Richard Douma (Sr.) was called home to be with his Lord & Savior, Jesus. Born February 18, 1938 in Newton, NJ to Henry and Vivian Pierson Douma. Richard grew up on his family’s dairy farm doing every chore required of a farm boy. Somehow, though, he found time to play football, basketball, and run track at Hackettstown (NJ) High School for all four years.

After graduating from Hackettstown High School in 1956, he went on to Norwich University, a military college, in Northfield, VT, where he continued with the same sports he played in high school. He graduated in 1960 with a bachelor’s degree in Education. Richard furthered his education by earning a master’s degree in Education from Bowie State College in 1974.

After graduating from Norwich University Richard taught high school for one year in Chester, VT before being commissioned in the U.S. Army. Richard’s Army career took him to several stateside posts as well as being stationed in Asmara, Ethiopia (now, Eritrea), South Korea, and Germany where he served in Augsburg and at the Czech border.

While serving at Ft. George Meade, Richard met Gloria Hoch Douma (or “Glo”, the only name he ever called her). They married in February 1973 in the post chapel on Ft. Meade.

Following his career with the U.S. Army, Richard’s second act was with the Army & Air Force Mutual Aid Association (life insurance for military personnel) at Ft. Myer in Arlington, VA from which he retired in 2004. While in his working years, Richard was always active in his spare time. He taught GED preparation evening classes for over a decade through the Anne Arundel County Public Schools and the Anne Arundel Community College. For many years, he was also an active member of his churches; Ferndale United Methodist in Glen Burnie, MD, Asbury United Methodist in Arnold, MD and St. Mark’s United Methodist in Easton and served on and chaired several committees. He also taught Sunday School classes, (teens and Senior Citizens) for many years.

After residing in Arnold, MD for 20 years, Richard and Glo retired to Easton, MD in 2003. They enjoyed retirement with many travels by land, air and sea; always stopping along their way to visit friends and family. Richard remained active in retirement. He taught at Sylvan Learning Center, worked as a starter at Hog Neck Golf Course, and cared for several elderly clients working for HomeInstead. Richard trained for and became a CASA volunteer (Court Appointed Special Advocate for children). He was an active member of his community participating in the Men’s Day Trippers monthly outings, playing bridge a few days a week at the community clubhouse and enjoying other activities there for almost 20 years. In 2015 Richard became a legally ordained minister and officiated the marriage ceremony for his son and daughter-in-law, Richard Jr. and Anna Kappus, in a small family service.

Richard’s favorite times were those he spent with his family, friends and the many pets that somehow found their way to their home through the years.

Richard is survived by his wife, Gloria; his son Richard Douma, Jr (Anna Kappus), his daughter Christine McCorkle (Peter); grandchildren Richard “Alex” Douma, III; Katherine Higuera (Sean); Logan Kappus; Amanda Kappus; Mason McCorkle; and Nolan McCorkle. He is also survived by three sisters: Shirley Fleming, Maisie Douma, and Carolyn Douma; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Besides his parents, Richard was predeceased by his sisters Barbara Jean Mueller, Nancy Zucker, and Sharon Gilbert.

Richard’s funeral will begin with a service at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, 100 Peachblossom Road, Easton, MD on Monday, January 30, 2023 at 11:00; followed by a procession to the chapel at the Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Hurlock, MD, where Richard will receive military honors. Afterwards, family and friends are invited to Richard’s Celebration of Life.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice of the Chesapeake, 90 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122. If you are so lead, you could also rescue a pet in Richard’s honor.  

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